Ethics

A note about ethics

Through all aspects of my business I follow the principles of the ‘Slow Fashion Movement’ which represents all things eco, ethical and green. Slow Fashion is a reaction to the mass produced, fast fashion industry where retailers selling the latest fashion trends at low prices promote consumerism and over-buying which has an impact on the environment and workers. I want to create thoughtful and sustainable pieces of jewellery that are worn, cherished and passed on, that last a lifetime and are not replaced or thrown away with seasonal trends.

I hand make all of my pieces to order and carry very little stock to ensure there is no waste. I support local resources within my community such as photographers, metal and packaging suppliers who in turn follow ethical codes of practice which I have fully researched.

My aim is to have a simple business with minimal impact on the environment and support my local industries. I have always wanted to do a job that I love, earn enough to support my family and give a little back.

But just like my t-shirt says........ I'm 'Still Learning'

Mikaela x

If you are interested to read more about how the materials and suppliers I use follow ethical principles then please see below:

Packaging

Every piece of jewellery comes packaged in a 100% cotton pouch which I buy from a UK company who use fair trade and ethical cotton from a sustainable source. The bag will also biodegrade completely. I hand silkscreen print every pouch with non-toxic water based ink. The pouch comes in a box which is made using eco-friendly methods and is fully recyclable.

Gold & Silver

My platers use 18ct ethical gold to plate my silver. The mining companies they use meet the following standards in their operations:

Respect for basic human rights outlined in international conventions and law.

Free, prior and informed consent of affected communities.

Safe working conditions.

Respect for workers’ rights and labour standards.

Ensure that operations are not located in areas of armed or militarised conflict.

Ensure that projects do not force communities off their lands.

No dumping of wastes into the ocean, rivers, lakes or streams.

Ensure that projects are not located in protected areas, fragile ecosystems or other areas of high conservation or ecological value.

Ensure that projects do not generate sulphuric acid in perpetuity.

Cover all costs of closing down and cleaning up mine sites.

Fully disclose information about social and environmental effects of projects.

Allow independent verification of the above.

The company who supply my silver castings support the aims of the Responsible Jewellery Council. They endeavour to use recycled grain wherever possible. I also recycle all of my offcuts of silver to be melted down and re-used.